It is important to start teaching a child dental hygiene early. Experts recommend a dental visit as early as twelve months. Children need to be prepared for their first visit because the dentist’s office can be a scary place. There are lots of tools, and some people are wearing masks. One way to prepare is by reading books that explain going to the dentist.
The Center for Dental Health offers Pediatric Dentistry Columbia TN. The Center also practices general family dentistry. Pediatric dentists have two to three years more training, to meet the special needs of infants, children and teenagers. They understand how to make these special patients feel at ease. Further, children feel more comfortable when the office is attractive to them. There should be children’s art, magazines for children in the waiting room, and smaller chairs. Dentists can also buy face masks with cartoons rather than a plain mask. All of these things help a child to relax.
Pediatric Dentistry Columbia TN, allows parents in the exam room with the child. Young children are usually very scared without their parents. A Pediatric dentist should also have a good “chair-side manner.” They should display special techniques that put children at ease. For example, many dentists start the exam by playing a game, like counting the teeth. The first dental visit should include a review of the one-year old’s diet and nutrition. The dentist gives the parents tips on cleaning the baby’s teeth and gums. Any bothersome oral habits, like sucking thumbs and the pacifier, will be discussed.
Young children may injure their mouth when they start crawling and walking. If the first dental visit has already happened, the parent will have someone to call for emergency dental care. The dentist may advise parents about the possible use of sealants. Sealants are placed on the teeth to protect the eight permanent molars from decay. The sooner a child begins practicing good dental habits, the better it is for the parents. Children need to learn to brush their own teeth, and be aware of eating too much sugar. Click here for more information.
